Red Zebra Cichlid

• ExerciseHigh

  A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment6–10 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Bloat (GDV) · Ich (white spot) · Fin rot

The Red Zebra (Maylandia estherae) comes from the eastern shore of Lake Malawi around Minos Reef and grows to roughly 10 to 13 cm. Despite the name it is not a colour form of the zebra mbuna but its own species. Females are the famous solid orange; males are usually paler orange to blue-grey with a few dark egg spots on the anal fin, so a tank of orange fish is mostly female. The colour is natural rather than dyed or hormone-fed, which is worth knowing given how often bright freshwater fish are artificially coloured. House a colony in 200 litres or more at 24-27C, pH 7.8 to 8.6, in hard water over a rock-heavy aquascape. Feed spirulina flake, algae wafers and vegetable-based pellets, with animal protein as an occasional treat only, since the species is prone to bloat on rich food. One male to three or more females is the working ratio, and the tank should be stocked as a busy mbuna community rather than as a pair. Expect constant low-level chasing: it is normal mbuna behaviour rather than a sign of something wrong, but it does rule out mixing with tetras, gouramis or any slow-moving fish.

• How active is a Red Zebra Cichlid?

  High. A busy, energetic swimmer — keep plenty of open swimming room.

• How much maintenance does a Red Zebra Cichlid need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Red Zebra Cichlid need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Red Zebra Cichlid a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Red Zebra Cichlid live?

  6–10 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Red Zebra Cichlid?

  Keep an eye out for Bloat (GDV), Ich (white spot), Fin rot. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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